The Melting Pot eyes Asia
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The world’s largest fondue restaurant chain is looking to expand throughout Asia after early success in Indonesia.
Franchisees are now actively being sought for The Melting Pot in Hong Kong, Macau, China, Japan, South Korea and India.
The Tampa, Florida-based restaurateur plans to enter China by opening at least five restaurants in Hong Kong and Kowloon as well as in Macao and numerous cities in Mainland China, including Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen.
Markets outside Asia, including Brazil, Canada and Mexico, are also in planning.
The Melting Pot operates more than 125 restaurants across 35 US states, Canada, Mexico, Southeast Asia, and the United Arab Emirates, and has more than 15 locations in development internationally.
The concept is known for its assortment of flavorful fondue cooking styles and unique entrees served with signature dipping sauces. The menu features a variety of a la carte selections, highlighting customisable options that invite guests to enjoy one, two, three or more courses as they select any combination of individually-priced cheese fondues, salads, entrees and chocolate fondues.
“The Melting Pot is a proven 40-year American franchise concept that is unlike any other,” said Dan Stone, chief business and people development officer for Front Burner Brands, the chain’s parent.
“The concept will be exhibiting at the Franchising & Licensing Asia 2015 from October 29 to 31 at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.”
“Featuring four distinct courses, guests dip menu items into heated fondue pots at the centre of each table. The concept provides a very social and interactive dining experience that has proven to translate well to multiple countries,” said Stone.
“We provide our franchisees the necessary training and support to ensure success, as well as expert resources to assist with identifying the best sites for our restaurants. We are ready to do business in Hong Kong and are seeking qualified candidates to build a strong brand presence throughout Hong Kong and the People’s Republic of China over the next few years.”
The concept will be exhibiting at the Franchising & Licensing Asia 2015 from October 29 to 31 at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Earlier this year, The Melting Pot opened its first restaurant in Jakarta, Indonesia and most recently its first Middle Eastern location in Dubai.
Franchisee candidates or groups should have access to a minimum of US$3 million in capital and at least one partner must be fluent in English. Depending on the real estate site selected, franchisees of The Melting Pot in the US can expect the total investment for one restaurant to be approximately $959,000 to $1.436 million. The initial franchise fee ranges from $45,000 to $60,000 per unit depending on the number of units committed and there is a one-time training fee of $50,000.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the required capital for potential franchisees looking to open a Melting Pot restaurant?
What is the required capital for potential franchisees looking to open a Melting Pot restaurant?
Franchisee candidates or groups need access to a minimum of US$3 million in capital. Also, at least one partner within the group must be fluent in English to qualify.
Q.Which specific cities in China has The Melting Pot identified for future expansion?
Which specific cities in China has The Melting Pot identified for future expansion?
The restaurateur plans to open restaurants in Hong Kong and Kowloon, Macao, and numerous Mainland Chinese cities. These include Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen.
Q.When and where will The Melting Pot be exhibiting to attract new franchisees?
When and where will The Melting Pot be exhibiting to attract new franchisees?
The concept will be exhibiting at the Franchising & Licensing Asia 2015 event. This takes place from October 29 to 31 at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
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